Matt MacConnell gets behind the wheel of the latest LCV offering from the Stellantis stable.
The e-Ducato has been around since 2021 and, when released, it offered a theoretical driving range of 230 miles. But now, Fiat has released a revised model, alongside various others, as part of the Stellantis Pro One refresh. e-Ducato sits on the same platform as the Peugeot e-Boxer, Vauxhall Movano Electric and Citroen e-Relay, which means that it’s versatile and flexible.
Outside, the front bumper now has slated vents and the full LED headlights are somewhat smoother, which gives the van a more futuristic look. Inside, things feel fresher compared to its predecessor. There’s a 10-inch touchscreen, which includes smartphone mirroring, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s also an ‘Eat&Work’ middle seat that acts as a tabletop when folded flat, as well as a new steering wheel with fancier buttons. A wireless phone charger and an optional 230V socket fitted to the dashboard for charging laptops or batteries up to 150W have also been added.
There’s more storage space in the dashboard, deeper door pockets and overhead shelving. The e-Ducato’s large front window and raised driving position make for great forward visibility, however, the view to the side feels slightly impaired because of the split in both side windows. While this is all great, there is a but – and it’s a pretty big one. The interior quality feels subpar when compared with other rivals; there’s a mass of scratchy plastics and some of the switchgear gives it a bit of a dull look.
Opening the rear doors reveals a large 17m3 cargo area, which can take payloads up to 1,695kg, and there’s only one wheelbase available. which has a 4.04m load area. You’ll struggle to find anything that will carry as much as the e-Ducato or the other boxer vans in the Stellantis range. The old van had a 47kWh battery, which could be upgraded to 79kWh. Now, there’s just one battery available, a 110kWh unit. This does mean a claimed range of 261 miles, which will, of course, decrease depending on conditions and how much you throw in the back. But it’s a decent improvement over the old van’s 113-230-mile range. e-Ducato has the potential to charge at a rate of 150kW, which means it’ll blitz the zero to 80% charge in under an hour. Plug into an AC unit and the van will charge at 11kW. This takes 11 hours 45 minutes to charge from empty to full.
On the road, e-Ducato feels composed, although when driving at speeds there’s some notable wind noise. The 275hp, 410Nm motor gives the van plenty of low-down oomph. The handling is neat and, given how large it is, there’s very little body roll although this could be down to the larger batteries improving the centre of gravity.
For now, there are two options: the entry-level Ducato and the range-topping Primo. In its standard guise, buyers will receive the digital instrument cluster and 10-inch touchscreen, electric heated mirrors, automatic air conditioning, keyless entry, and cruise control. Upgrading will add level two autonomous driving.
IN BRIEF
WHAT IS IT? Large van
HOW MUCH? £52,495 (excl. VAT)
GROSS PAYLOAD? 1,695kg (max)
RANGE? 261 miles
BATTERY? 110kWh
CHARGING? 130kW DC / 11kW AC